Here’s the easiest tip you’ll receive all week:
Create a “Top 10” list. No, I’m not joking. It’s shockingly simple and, frankly, effective.
But wait! Before you roll your eyes and mutter, “Not another one of those clickbait lists,” hear me out. A “Top 10” list isn’t just about throwing together random points. It’s a proven content strategy that organizes information in a way people absolutely love (and by “love,” I mean they’ll visit your website, read your post, and maybe even share it with their coworkers or dog).
Why “Top 10” Lists Are a Content Goldmine
Let’s get real. The internet is a vast sea of endless information, which most of us consume like a kid eating their vegetables—quickly and somewhat reluctantly. The average reader skims articles instead of diving in word by word, so your job is to grab their attention and spoon-feed the good stuff. Lists make this ridiculously easy.
They’re Skim-Friendly
Imagine scrolling through a giant wall of text about, say, social media tools. Most of us would prefer to battle a paper jam in a printer. But bullet points and numbered lists? Now, that’s our jam. They’re visually tidy and lead the reader’s eye exactly where you want it to go. That’s the magic of a list—it organizes chaos. Think of it as decluttering your attic but for your audience’s brain.
They Boost Engagement
A concise, organized list guides your readers to the juicy details without wasting their time. When you deliver valuable content fast, guess what happens? People stick around. They share your post. They might even bookmark your site and send it to their grandma. It’s the kind of engagement that gets your website noticed—by real humans and by Google algorithms.
Google Loves Lists
Speaking of Google, lists make their algorithms swoon. A well-structured “Top 10” post that includes semantically related keywords (like “how to write a list post” or “content marketing strategies”) can boost your SEO rankings faster than your cat knocks over your coffee cup in the morning.
Internal linking? Oh, absolutely. Want even more traffic? Add links to relevant pages on your website. This not only helps users navigate your content but also tells search engines your site is a treasure trove of interconnected nuggets of wisdom.
How to Create a “Top 10” List That Doesn’t Suck
We’ve all seen lazy lists before—the kind slapped together with vague tips like, “Be productive,” or “Work smarter, not harder.” Please, for the sake of humanity, don’t do this. You’re better than that, and your audience deserves better too.
Step 1: Pick a Hot Topic
Don’t just write about the first thing that pops into your head. Conduct a little detective work first. Google trending topics in your niche, check forums, or stalk what competitors are posting. The goal is to tackle something that’s buzzing with potential.
For example, if you’re in social media marketing, you could create a list about essential tools everyone’s kidding themselves if they don’t have.
Step 2: Make It Niche
A broad topic like “Top 10 Cars” may be too generic and attract drivers as well as grandmas shopping for gift ideas. Narrow it down to something like “Top 10 Electric Cars for Budget Shoppers,” and now you’re speaking directly to a specific audience. Narrow focus equals better connections with the people who truly matter to your business.
Step 3: Format It
Get your list in prime skimming condition with these basic formatting secrets:
- Use bold headings for each point.
- Include short, snappy paragraphs (because no one likes reading novels online).
- Add images, if possible. A good visual is worth a thousand extra shares.
Remember, formatting is your secret handshake with your readers. Use it wisely.
Step 4: Deliver Value
It’s tempting to pack your list with fluffier-than-a-marshmallow points just to fill space. Resist that urge! Your audience isn’t here for the filler. Every point on your list should serve a purpose and give your readers something valuable to walk away with.
Step 5: Wrap It All Up
End your list with a bang—not a whimper. Summarize, share an inspirational tip, or toss in a witty comment. For instance: “Now you have the power to create your own ‘Top 10’ masterpiece. Use it wisely, or the internet gods may frown upon you.”
Internal Links? Don’t Forget ‘Em
While you’re at it, don’t shy away from slipping in helpful internal links. For instance, if you’re thinking of adding visuals to your list post, visit Laughingbird Software for tools that’ll help you create eye-catching graphics faster than you can brew a cup of coffee.
FAQs About Writing a “List Post”
Why do lists work better than regular articles?
People are naturally drawn to organized, bite-sized content. Lists break down complex info into easily digestible nuggets, which makes them a reader favorite.
What topics work best for list posts?
Anything your audience cares about! Popular ones include tips, tools, trends, and common mistakes in your industry. It really depends on what keeps your readers awake at night (besides binge-watching their favorite shows).
How many points should a list have?
While “10” is the magic number for most lists, there’s no rule. It could be a Top 5 or Top 25, depending on how much ground you need to cover. The key is quality, not quantity.
Can I make my list funny?
Absolutely! Humor adds personality and keeps readers engaged. Just make sure your jokes hit the right tone and don’t outshine the valuable info you’re offering.
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to tackle your first “Top 10” list. Just remember: pick the right topic, be authentic, and sprinkle in a little humor. Trust me, your readers—and your traffic stats—will thank you.
